multi vs single cdp - obvious difference?

jabrax

I did some searching on the forum for sound differences between multi and single disc cd player. I enjoy the ability to load up and let it spin randomly.

I can understand the physical differences between the two, things like noises why changing disc.

Are there any differences in sound and what processes within the player would cause them?

Refefer

The basic idea here is the more electronics there are, especially motors, lead to more noise in the channel.

My ears aren't good enough to tell the difference, so YMMV.

janmike

My opinion has always been that single cpd's have better sound.

Spacedeckman

There are very few multi-players that have what it takes to be a good player. Just not much of a market for them I guess. Most of the good sounding pieces tend to be single discs.

Given that, you could use a better D/A on a multi-disc, which could be as cheap as using the digital input on your receiver. If you aren't using a receiver, then any outboard DAC will be better than what comes in a garden variety CD changer. I chanced on mine, but it is actually a DVD player that just happens to have the chops to be a high end CD player. Not many of those either.

I guess, like record changers before them, the more audiophile market tended to avoid changers, and the manufacturers followed their lead.

Mark

F1nut

The transports in spinners leaves much to be desired.

jabrax

Interesting

Case study - Marantz has 2 cd players, cc4001 (multi) and cc5001 (single). They both appear to have the same major electroncs (dac etc,). The 4001 is a few bucks more I assume do to the multi disc feature with identical electronics.

Is the common thought (in theory) that the 5001 would sound better do to less demands on the circuitry?

billbillw

The real idea is that the single disc transport is more sturdy and spins the disc with less vibration, etc. In practice, I don't think there is much difference unless you are talking about the really well built single disc players like the TOTL Sony ES or Pioneer Elite.

FWIW, I'd put my Sony SCD-C333ES changer up against just about any single disc for sound quality. Its a 25lb changer that's built like a tank, and has excellent electronics to boot.

sucks2beme

There are serveral good multi disk CDPs. Don't expect to find them cheap.
Look to the same brands that make the single disks that are good.
I screwed up a couple of months ago when I didn't snag a great
deal on an Arcam Alpha MCD

steveinaz

In theory there should be no difference. The disc "handling" has changed, and nothing else. The problem is, most companies base their changers on the cheaper versions (electronically) of their standard single-disc players.

Why more high-end changers aren't made, I have no idea. Rotel is about the only one I would own.

Sherardp

I too own the Marantz, I went from a low end Sony to the CC4001. I now experience the open soundstage, and hear the seperate instruments in Jazz, classical music, etc. Granted Im using good cables as well, to include Signal PowerCord, and Signal Cable Silver IC's so that may make a difference to some, and not others. The player is rather noisy only during disc changes, not during playback of any sort. Then again I wouldnt say it was too noisy as to think something was wrong with the player. I purchased a CC4300 and experienced the grinding etc, sent it back to audioavisor and went back to the Sony before going to the new CC4001. Im all for it, and may even try using an outboard DAC to see if the player has even more potential.

WilliamM2

Get the best of both worlds. Single drive, and holds around 500 discs on the internal HD, very convienient. The specs claim 200GB, but mine arrived with 300GB.

http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=200106&CTID=5002200

Sherardp

WilliamM2 wrote: »

Get the best of both worlds. Single drive, and holds around 500 discs on the internal HD, very convienient. The specs claim 200GB, but mine arrived with 300GB.

http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=200106&CTID=5002200

very nice

VR3

I thought I would never like single disc cd players.

After switching to them - I will never go back to multi-disk changers.

Sound better, arnt noisy ---

And you cant switch between disc on the fly so you are more selective of your listening. And enjoy it more.

Not to mention they last longer and the BQ is usually a lil tighter.

reeltrouble1

It seems as if the manufacture's generally target changers to those not interested in Audio Sound Quality, another example how the convenience of a device can outway certain negative qualities. I suppose they figure if a lesser transport, noise and so on do not really bother the listener, then cheaper parts, integrated circuits will not either.

Your still probably not going to hear a tremendous difference though comparing dollar for dollar until the four figure range of single disc player's.

I listened to my jukebox today while cruising the board, still an enjoyable experience just not "smoking jacket" time.

RT1

NeilGabriel

I've been looking at used Marantz cc4001. Any owners recall what it went for new?

Spacedeckman

WilliamM2 wrote: »

Get the best of both worlds. Single drive, and holds around 500 discs on the internal HD, very convienient. The specs claim 200GB, but mine arrived with 300GB.

http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=200106&CTID=5002200

I've got a lot of vinyl I would like to burn onto disc, I'd really like one of those, wanted one for a long time, but haven't pulled the trigger. Pretty good D/A and A/D converters in it too.

Mark

treitz3

When you go with audio gear that pleases the consumer with "convenience", then the focus turns away from audio to do just that.

Audiophiles go for one transport to no transport, or vinyl. John Q. Public who is interested in convenience will get his convenience, but it will sacrifice on the sound. Why do you think MP3's sound bad? They are convenient.

Do you want to have convenience, or the best sound possible?

SACD is pretty much known as an audiophile format. I have yet to run across a multi-disc SACD player. You figure it out.;)

Sherardp

NeilGabriel wrote: »

I've been looking at used Marantz cc4001. Any owners recall what it went for new?

I paid 328.00 from one call ,you can find it @ http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?id=34686

Sherardp

treitz3 wrote: »

SACD is pretty much known as an audiophile format. I have yet to run across a multi-disc SACD player. You figure it out.;)

You havent looked really hard brother. Here you go

http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?id=25152

treitz3

I stand erected.

NeilGabriel

Sherardp wrote: »

I paid 328.00 from one call ,you can find it @ http://www.onecall.com/ProductDetails.aspx?id=34686

What can you report about onecall? I never bought from them. It looks like an electronics place and not another amazon, right?

engtaz

I have had no problems with them on stuff I have ordered.

cmy330go

Spacedeckman wrote: »

I've got a lot of vinyl I would like to burn onto disc, I'd really like one of those, wanted one for a long time, but haven't pulled the trigger. Pretty good D/A and A/D converters in it too.

Mark

I know someone who could get you a great deal on one.;)

Spacedeckman

cmy330go wrote: »

I know someone who could get you a great deal on one.;)

Spent it on a phono stage, know what I mean?

Spacedeckman

treitz3 wrote: »

When you go with audio gear that pleases the consumer with "convenience", then the focus turns away from audio to do just that.

Audiophiles go for one transport to no transport, or vinyl. John Q. Public who is interested in convenience will get his convenience, but it will sacrifice on the sound. Why do you think MP3's sound bad? They are convenient.

Do you want to have convenience, or the best sound possible?

SACD is pretty much known as an audiophile format. I have yet to run across a multi-disc SACD player. You figure it out.;)

It's not that it can't be done, or that it hasn't been done, it's just that the target audience for higher end gear just isn't interested, at least enough for manufacturers to make a commitment to it.

My Yamaha was a total marketing flop. High performance DVD changers that can play CDs commensurate with players at or above the price level. Sounds like a winner, but it just didn't sell in any quantity. No market. I'd like the unit better if it were a single disc, personally, but it isn't giving up any noticable performance being a changer. Then again, it was $1400 retail. Gotta love a big power supply, solid transport, and top end Burr Browns. Recipie for success....unless you wanted to sell them.

cmy330go

Spacedeckman wrote: »

Spent it on a phono stage, know what I mean?

Boy do I. Two as a matter of fact.:D